MONEY MASTER

Emerging Asian stocks are hitting new highs, led by Taiwan and South Korea, as AI-driven demand continues to dominate markets. However, currencies are weakening due to a stronger US dollar and uncertainty around the US-Iran peace deal. AI is now the strongest force in markets strong enough to offset geopolitics and rising rates. What’s Really Happening Equity markets and currencies are telling two very different stories: Stocks are rallying → driven by AI and semiconductor demand Currencies are weakening → pressured by USD strength and geopolitical uncertainty Taiwan and South Korea heavily exposed to semiconductors are leading gains because they sit at the center of the global AI supply chain. At the same time, unclear progress on the Iran deal and a stronger dollar are limiting capital flows into regional currencies. Why This Matters This divergence reveals something deeper: Equity investors are focused on  growth (AI) Currency markets are focused on  risk (USD + geopolitics...

South Korea is in political turmoil after lawmakers filed an impeachment bill against President Yoon Suk Yeol following his unprecedented declaration of martial law. The declaration, aimed at banning political activity and censoring media, was rescinded within six hours amid widespread backlash and resistance from parliament and the public. Martial Law and Impeachment Motion President Yoon announced martial law late Tuesday, citing threats from "pro-North Korean anti-state forces" and a need to protect the constitutional order. However, the move sparked outrage: Armed troops entered the National Assembly , prompting parliamentary aides to push them back using fire extinguishers. Protesters clashed with police outside. Within hours, 190 of 300 parliament members voted to nullify the declaration. Following the incident, six opposition parties filed an impeachment bill. The vote is expected later this week, with a two-thirds majority required to pass. "We couldn't ign...

Korea Zinc Co chairman Choi Yun-beom, alongside Bain Capital, has acquired an additional 11% of the company’s shares through a recent buyback, according to a regulatory filing. Choi, backed by Bain, has been working to counter a takeover attempt from Young Poong Corp , the company's largest shareholder, and private equity firm MBK Partners . The takeover battle revolves around control of the world’s largest zinc producer . Following the buyback announcement, Korea Zinc shares surged by as much as 7.5% , building on last week's 52% increase . As of 9:45 a.m. in Seoul, shares were trading at 1,282,000 won (US$923, or RM4,032) , significantly above Choi’s 890,000 won buyback offer , indicating that investors are anticipating further developments in the ongoing control struggle. Shareholders representing 9.85% of Korea Zinc participated in the buyback offer, while Bain Capital acquired 1.41% . In total, Korea Zinc aimed to repurchase as much as 20% of the company’s shares . Befor...